From Blair Salisbury, owner of El cholo, is the latest greatest
version of Caribbean-style cuisine in a setting of tropical
paradise.

you can't miss the waterfall out front which
prepares for a vision of a wonderland. Walking inside Alhambra's
newest restaurant, Ambiente - which means ambience or atmosphere
- leaves you with a reality check. Where am I?

"Salsibury
. . . decided that his
house brand would be the
new XXX Siglo Trienta"

The colors are rain-forest in brilliance. Huge
metal banana leaves surge out of faux bamboo walls. The lighting
is alluring and your senses indicate that this may be closest
you'll get to the Yucatan peninsula for awhile, so enjoy this
experience now.

Executive chef Aleccio Leon (also of El Cholo)
worked closely with Salisbury and partner Diego Fernandez,
who wrote the menu from scratch.

Salsibury, a fan of tequila as an aficionado,
decided that his house brand would be the new XXX Siglo Trienta.
Used in the well, this ultra premium pouring tequila from
123 Spirits was just honored with the double gold in its class
at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition this past April.
XXX, distributed by Young's Market, was developed by David
Ravandi, whose knowledge in packaging, marketing and the art
of tequila lead him to fame with another well known brand.

At Ambiente, diners will have the opportunity
to dance and listen to music, with an old Cuban-style stage
flanked by deep red velvet curtains in the forground. VIP
areas are designated for high rollers, and the outdoor patio
is heavenly.

Bar Manager Anthony Villegas will make sure
the finest cocktails and quality wines are available. "Atmosphere
is taken for granted at so many restaurants," Villegas
points out. "Here at Ambiente, it flows naturally."